27 Ghanaian children receive free life-saving heart surgeries through international collaboration at Korle Bu

The National Cardiothoracic Centre at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital has announced a collaboration with German philanthropic organizations, Kinderherzen and the Gerald Asamoah Foundation, to perform critical heart surgeries for children.

The partnership, which began on November 3, has provided life-saving cardiac interventions for 27 young Ghanaian patients suffering from congenital heart defects, including “hole-in-the-heart” conditions.

At a press briefing held at the National Cardiothoracic Centre on November 8, 2024, Dr. Kow Entsua-Mensah, Director of the Centre, explained that this collaboration has been transformative not only for the children and families affected but also for the medical staff at Korle Bu.

“This mission has been a life-changer for the 27 beneficiary children and their families,” Dr. Entsua-Mensah said.

“Of the surgeries performed, five were open-heart procedures, while 22 were minimally invasive ‘keyhole’ surgeries, focusing on very young children weighing under six kilograms.”

The partnership has enabled the Centre’s staff to enhance their skills in pediatric cardiac care, bringing their expertise closer to international standards.

"Our goal is for the Centre’s outcomes to mirror those of our international partners," said Dr. Entsua-Mensah.

This mission was jointly funded by Kinderherzen and the Gerald Asamoah Foundation, contributing approximately €250,000 in medical equipment, supplies, and logistical support for the German team’s stay in Ghana. The organization provided similar support to the hospital in 2023.

In addition, the National Cardiothoracic Centre invested $80,000 in capital equipment upgrades to support these advanced procedures.

Additional sponsorship for patient support came from the Shen Yang and Shen Yuet Children's Heart Foundation, the Children's Heart Foundation led by Jacqui Ahomka Lindsey, and Awake Mineral Water, a Kasapreko Company subsidiary.

Looking forward, the National Cardiothoracic Centre plans to expand the scope and complexity of pediatric cardiac procedures to help more children in need.

Dr. Entsua-Mensah, alongside Kinderherzen International Head Anja Schlarb and Gerald Asamoah, Founder of the Gerald Asamoah Foundation, jointly expressed gratitude for the collective commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes in Ghana.